Your guide to fishing seasons in belize
Belize is a world-class fishing destination, offering rich opportunities for both novice and seasoned anglers. With its extensive coastline, numerous cayes, and the magnificent Belize Barrier Reef, the country is a haven for a wide variety of fish species throughout the year. However, understanding the seasonal patterns can significantly enhance your fishing experience. This comprehensive guide breaks down the best times to target specific species in Belize, ensuring you can plan your fishing trip to maximize your success on the water.
Winter (December to February): Ideal for Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon
Winter in Belize is particularly favorable for anglers focused on flats fishing, especially those targeting the famed “Grand Slam” species: bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The cooler temperatures and clear waters create ideal conditions for these species, making winter one of the best times for fly fishing in Belize.
The best times to fly fish in belize
Bonefish
Bonefish are the quintessential flats species, often found in shallow, clear waters where they forage for crustaceans and small fish. December to February is prime time to target bonefish in Belize, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. These elusive fish are known for their lightning-fast runs, making them a thrilling catch for any angler.
- Learn more about Bonefish from the Florida Museum.
Permit
Permit are highly prized for their wariness and the challenge they present to anglers. Winter months are particularly productive for permit fishing, with January and February being the peak months. Permit often feed in schools along the sandy flats, and they are notoriously selective eaters, making them one of the most challenging and rewarding fish to catch on a fly.
- Discover more about Permit from Sport Fishing Magazine.
Tarpon
Known as the “Silver King,” tarpon are present in Belize year-round, but winter sees a concentration of juvenile tarpon in the coastal lagoons and river mouths. These smaller tarpon, often referred to as “baby tarpon,” range from 10 to 40 pounds and offer an exciting challenge on light tackle. The best times to catch tarpon are early morning and late afternoon when they are most active.
- More about Tarpon from Florida Museum.
Spring (March to May): The Start of Big Game Fishing Season
Spring ushers in the beginning of the big game fishing season in Belize, particularly for those interested in offshore fishing. As the water warms up, pelagic species become more active, making this the perfect time to venture out into the deep blue.
Marlin
March through May marks the start of marlin season in Belize. Both Blue Marlin and White Marlin are found off the coast, particularly around the deep drop-offs beyond the barrier reef. These powerful fish are known for their size, often exceeding 500 pounds, and their acrobatic displays once hooked. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to target marlin, with live bait and trolling being the most effective techniques.
- Learn about Blue Marlin from National Geographic.
Sailfish
Sailfish are known for their incredible speed and spectacular jumps, making them one of the most exciting game fish to catch. The spring months, particularly April and May, are prime for sailfish in Belize. These fish are often found near the surface, chasing schools of baitfish, and can be caught using trolling methods with ballyhoo or artificial lures.
- Discover more about Sailfish.
Wahoo
Wahoo are another highly sought-after species during the spring, known for their sleek bodies and razor-sharp teeth. These fish are incredibly fast, reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. March to May is a peak time for wahoo fishing in Belize, especially when trolling around the reef edges and offshore structures. Wahoo are most active during the early morning and late afternoon.
- More information on Wahoo from Sport Fishing Magazine.
Summer (June to August): Peak Season for Big Game Fish
Spring ushers in the beginning of the big game fishing season in Belize, particularly for those interested in offshore fishing. As the water warms up, pelagic species become more active, making this the perfect time to venture out into the deep blue.
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna are abundant during the summer months, particularly from June to August. These powerful fish are known for their speed and endurance, making them a top target for sport fishers. Yellowfin Tuna are typically found in deep waters beyond the reef, often near schools of baitfish or floating debris. Trolling with artificial lures or live bait is the most effective method for catching these prized fish.
- Detailed information about Yellowfin Tuna from Oceana.
Mahi-Mahi (Dorado)
Mahi-Mahi, also known as Dorado, are another popular target during the summer. These brightly colored fish are often found near floating debris, weed lines, or FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices). Mahi-Mahi are known for their acrobatic jumps and rapid runs, making them a favorite among anglers. The best time to catch Mahi-Mahi in Belize is from June to September.
- Check out Mahi-Mahi from NOAA Fisheries.
Blackfin Tuna
Although smaller than Yellowfin, Blackfin Tuna provide an equally exciting fishing experience. These fish are typically found in large schools and are known for their aggressive feeding behavior. The summer months are ideal for targeting Blackfin Tuna, especially when using trolling or chumming techniques. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish for Blackfin Tuna.
- More about Blackfin Tuna from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Looking for a Private Experience? Learn more about our customizable private fishing charters designed to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Fall (September to November): A Mixed Bag of Opportunities
Fall is a transitional season in Belize, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities both inshore and offshore. While the weather can be more variable, the fishing remains excellent, with a variety of species available.
Grouper
Grouper are another prime target during the fall, with species like Nassau Grouper and Black Grouper being more active as the waters cool slightly. Groupers are known for their strength and tendency to seek shelter in reef crevices, making them a challenging catch. The fall months offer some of the best opportunities to target these bottom-dwelling giants.
Discover more about Nassau Grouper.
Kingfish
Kingfish, also known as King Mackerel, are a popular target during the fall, particularly when trolling near the reef edges and drop-offs. These fast and aggressive fish are known for their strong runs and are highly sought after by anglers. September to November is a great time to catch Kingfish, especially during the early morning hours.
- Learn more about Kingfish from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Snapper
Fall is an excellent time for snapper fishing in Belize, particularly for species like Queen Snapper, Mutton Snapper and Yellowtail Snapper. These fish are typically found around the coral reefs and rocky outcrops, where they feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. Queen snapper and Champagne snapper are found in the deeper waters of Belize. The best time to catch snapper is during the early morning or late evening when they are most active.
- Learn more about Mutton Snapper from Fish Base.
Tips for Planning Your Fishing Trip
Planning Your Next Belize Fishing Adventure? Check out our Belize Fishing Charters for more details on the best fishing experiences we offer year-round.
- Book in Advance: Belize’s peak fishing seasons are popular, so it’s advisable to book your fishing trip well in advance to secure your spot. Early bookings also allow you to choose the best dates for targeting specific species.
- Gear Up: While we provide all necessary equipment, bringing your favorite gear and tackle can enhance your experience. Consider packing specialized lures, flies, or bait that are known to be effective for the species you’re targeting. Don’t forget sun protection, polarized sunglasses, and a camera to capture your memorable catches.
- Consider the Weather: Belize’s weather can vary, especially during the rainy season (June to November). Keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with your fishing dates if possible. Rain showers are common
Curious About What Else You Can Do on the Water? Explore our Activities for a full day of adventure on the Belize Barrier Reef.